Slain Philadelphia police officer mourned, honored at church

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — A city police officer killed during a gunfight at a video game store was honored at Sunday church services as a defender of the neighborhood and a caring father.

Parishioners of St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church not only mourned and praised officer Robert Wilson III, but also embraced his grieving fellow officers and collected money to help support his two young sons, The Philadelphia Inquirer reported.

"Our hearts are broken with what happened last Thursday," the Rev. Stephen D. Thorne said. "He gave his life because he was deeply rooted in the community."

Wilson, 30, was buying a gift for his 9-year-old son at the GameStop store just two blocks from the north Philadelphia church when he was killed during a robbery attempt.

"This man was buying a gift to reward his son for doing well in school," Thorne said. "Who says there are no good black men?"

The congregation responded with a standing ovation.

"Officer Wilson, we thank you for choosing a great profession. We thank you for your commitment. We thank you for the smile and the way you went about your business. We thank you for putting your life on the line," Thorne said.

"You gave your life to save others, and we just want to thank you," he said.

Fellow officers joined parishioners in walking to the altar to donate money for Wilson's sons, Quahmier, who turns 10 on Monday, and 1-year-old Robert Wilson IV.

Funeral services for Wilson have not been announced.

Two suspects have been charged in the slaying: Ramone Williams, 24, was arraigned early Saturday, while his brother, Carlton Hipps, 29, remains hospitalized.

It's unclear if either has an attorney who can comment on the charges.

"Officer Wilson served our neighborhood and died protecting our neighborhood," said Sister Nancy Fitzgerald, principal of St. Martin de Porres Catholic School. "That alone brings us to our knees."